Washington, D.C., Probate Administration Attorney Guides You Through the Process

Offering detailed, client-centered probate counsel for nearly 30 years

Probate, the court procedure that proves a will to be valid or invalid, can be an overwhelming, time-consuming process, made even more difficult because it follows the death of a loved one. In some cases, probate can be marked by complex and heated disputes when the terms of a will are challenged. That’s why it’s important to be represented by an experienced probate administration attorney who is also adept at probate litigation. At the Law Office of Beverly Henderson, we offer nearly three decades of experience, a wealth of knowledge, and a reputation for detailed, trustworthy legal counsel representing clients in the D.C. metro area in probate matters. We combine caring, personalized attention with the utmost professionalism to guide you through your duties as an executor or advocate for you as a beneficiary.

Knowledgeable D.C. probate attorney provides the professional experience you need

Depending on the size and complexity of the estate in question, the probate process can be simple or complex, lasting anywhere from months to years. If the decedent dies with a will in place and the estate’s assets are less than $40,000, closing the estate is usually fairly simple and straightforward. With larger and more complex estates, probate often takes more time — and may involve litigation if others object to the terms of the will. If someone dies without a will in the District of Columbia, the assets that would have passed through a will are distributed to existing family members according to laws of intestate succession, and an administrator is appointed to handle the probate. No matter what size estate you have been charged with administering, the Law Office of Beverly Henderson will guide you through the entire probate process, with an in-depth, personalized approach to every task:

• Locating assets
• Appraising assets to determine value
• Locating and paying all debts
• Determining and paying taxes on the estate
• Identifying legal heirs and re-titling property in the name of the new owners
• Transferring any remaining assets to the rightful owners

These are routine matters that must be handled by the executor or administrator of an estate. But the process becomes more complicated — and potentially contentious — when these conditions exist:

• The estate has unpaid taxes.
• The person’s death might have been caused by negligence or some other unlawful action, possibly warranting a wrongful death action.
• The person’s death was tied to the death of another, such as in a car accident.
• Guardianship of minor children or other dependents needs to be established.

All probate attorneys know how to manage complex probate matters, but not every probate lawyer offers the level of individualized attention we do. We care about your rights and want you to feel comfortable while we work with you to close the estate as simply and quickly as possible.

Common reasons for probate disputes

There are many reasons why estates end up in probate litigation. When a will exists, the probate court must provide an opportunity for others to object to the will’s terms. A challenge, or will contest, can be brought by someone who disputes the will’s accuracy or validity. There are other allegations that may complicate the probate process and potentially lead to litigation:

• Contesting family lineage
• Alleging that property was wrongfully distributed
• Alleging that the deceased was not of sound mind when drafting the will or was coerced into setting its terms

The Law Office of Beverly Henderson has successfully guided clients through the probate process for nearly 30 years. Let us put our years of experience and dedicated counsel to work for you.

Contact an experienced probate administration lawyer in Washington, D.C.

When you are responsible for administering the estate of a loved one, you deserved skilled counsel that takes into account your emotional burdens as well as the legal obligations you face during probate. The Law Office of Beverly Henderson is dedicated to providing you with trustworthy advice and personalized service. To speak with our experienced probate attorney, contact us online or call us at 202-768-9278 to schedule a free consultation.